optimate connection problem

[davidgibson999]

Hi

I have an Optimate III SP and recently there has been a problem with the connection - I use the permanent battery connection and clip the charger on and off as needed. However I now have to hold the connectors together for it to function and obviously this is no use - I tried using the crocodile clip attachment and it works perfectly so the problem evidently lies in the connection on the permanent connector lead - anyone have experience of the same thing and gotten it sorted?

David

 

[west coast traveller]

I've had the same problem-just put it down to wear and tear/poor build of connector. Currently it works if waggled around a bit. I'll replace with jack socket/plug or DIN's when I get round to it as it won't be much fun finding out my batterys discharged when I thought it was happily being trickle charged.

 

[Humbug]

I've had this problem a couple of times. The first time was due to the 'male' pins being pushed back into their housing and not making a full contact. They can usually be pushed back into place using a thin screwdriver through the back of the housing. The second time, the male pins just disappeared due to corrosion and a new lead had to be fitted. I now ensure this gets a good spray of ACF50 to stop it happening again.

 

[mitchly]

Maplins do the same connectors with a fly lead already fitted. Doesn't cost the earth either. Look under battery connectors.

 

[bikermike]

Radio Control Modellers suppliers do a very neat range of quick connectors, other than the cheap and cheerful (ie: nasty) "Tamiya" style used on the Optimate range, most of which provide a better connection and are more "substantial" as well. Give them a visit.

 

[scott58]

Had exactly the same problem, ended up using the auxiliary socket bought a plug and now use that. I tried to find out if my supplier did spare plugs & sockets but no joy.
The new maximiser has a different plug and socket so I feel it is a manufacturers failing. I didn't contact Oxford direct maybe that should be done. ??????????

 

[Wapping]

The pins, usually at the bike end, corrode and / or get pushed in.

Simply replace the flying lead.

 

[Beemer Joe]

Hi David,

I had exactly the same problem but rectified it by pushing the leads back into the connector block (charger side). It is definitely a weak point but does seem easy to rectify and, obviously , you need to check the charger to ensure all is well before you leave the bike for any length of time.

Harry is taking the GSA on Sunday and hopefully I will be taking his GS in part exchange. I have done 84 miles on the GSA and have dropped her three times. Failing that it is back to the drawing board.

 

[davidgibson999]

Hi David,

I had exactly the same problem but rectified it by pushing the leads back into the connector block (charger side). It is definitely a weak point but does seem easy to rectify and, obviously , you need to check the charger to ensure all is well before you leave the bike for any length of time.

Harry is taking the GSA on Sunday and hopefully I will be taking his GS in part exchange. I have done 84 miles on the GSA and have dropped her three times. Failing that it is back to the drawing board.

So I heard - Harry's bike is a good un! I contacted Optimate and they sent me out a new charger connector so all's well for another while!
Have to catch up soon

David